Kelly
In a landmark move to combat poverty and improve child well-being, Sacramento County has approved a $725 monthly stimulus for selected families starting July 2025.
The program, known as the Family First Sacramento Economic Pilot, aims to provide consistent and unrestricted financial support to 200 families over a 13-month period, making it one of the most targeted and impactful local initiatives in recent years.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program, eligibility rules, and the full payment schedule.
What Is the Family First Sacramento Economic Pilot?
The Family First Economic Support Pilot Program is a guaranteed income initiative designed to assist low-income families with children aged 0–5. Unlike traditional aid programs, this initiative offers $725/month in direct, no-strings-attached payments—a total of $8,700 over 13 months.
The program launches on June 15, 2025, and ends on July 15, 2026, providing participants with stable monthly payments to help cover basic needs, childcare, rent, and other household expenses.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Family First Sacramento Economic Pilot |
| Monthly Stimulus Amount | $725 |
| Total Duration | 13 months |
| Total Assistance | $8,700 per family |
| Start Date | June 15, 2025 |
| Final Payment Date | July 15, 2026 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or prepaid debit card |
| Number of Families Selected | 200 |
| Administered By | Sacramento County Dept. of Child, Family, and Adult Services |
Who Is Eligible for the $725 Stimulus?
The goal of the program is to reach families facing genuine financial hardship and to provide support during their children’s most formative years. To achieve this, strict eligibility criteria have been implemented.
Eligibility Requirements Include:
- Must be a parent or legal guardian of a child aged 0 to 5
- Child must live in the household at least half the time
- Must reside in specific Sacramento County ZIP codes:
95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, or 95838 - Household income must be below 200% of the federal poverty level
All qualified applicants were randomly selected to ensure fairness and scientific validity for future policy recommendations.
Payment Schedule and Timeline
Payments begin on June 15, 2025, and will continue monthly until July 15, 2026. The funds will be delivered through direct deposit or prepaid debit cards, depending on what the participant selected during the application process.
Monthly Payment Schedule
| Payment Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| June 2025 | June 15, 2025 |
| July 2025 | July 15, 2025 |
| August 2025 | August 15, 2025 |
| September 2025 | September 15, 2025 |
| October 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| November 2025 | November 15, 2025 |
| December 2025 | December 15, 2025 |
| January 2026 | January 15, 2026 |
| February 2026 | February 15, 2026 |
| March 2026 | March 15, 2026 |
| April 2026 | April 15, 2026 |
| May 2026 | May 15, 2026 |
| June 2026 | June 15, 2026 |
| Final Payment | July 15, 2026 |
Unrestricted Use of Funds
A key innovation of this program is the unconditional nature of the payments. Unlike other government assistance programs that restrict spending, this stimulus allows families to use the money however they see fit.
That could include:
- Rent or utility payments
- Groceries and childcare
- Transportation costs
- Healthcare expenses
- Or saving for education or emergencies
The intent is to offer true financial freedom, empowering parents to make decisions that best serve their household.
Who Is Running the Program and Where’s the Money Coming From?
The program is administered by the Sacramento County Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services. Funding comes from a combination of:
- A block grant from the California Department of Social Services
- Private philanthropic contributions from donors and community partners
This public-private funding model highlights the community’s commitment to investing in family stability and child well-being.
How to Check Application Status
Although the application window has closed, selected families can check their status through:
- Sacramento County’s official website
- Email or phone communications from program administrators
It’s crucial for participants to keep their contact and banking information up to date to avoid delays in receiving payments.
The $725 monthly stimulus starting in July 2025 through Sacramento’s Family First Economic Pilot is more than just a relief payment—it’s a bold step toward addressing child poverty, supporting families, and creating long-term financial security.
By removing spending restrictions and offering unconditional support, Sacramento County is giving parents the flexibility and dignity to prioritize their family’s needs.
Though applications are closed, the success of this pilot could shape future guaranteed income programs across the country. Keep an eye on Sacramento County’s official announcements for updates on new opportunities.
FAQs
Can I still apply for the $725 stimulus?
No. The application period has closed. However, similar programs may launch in the future.
Will I be taxed on the $725 monthly payments?
No. These payments are classified as non-taxable economic support, not income.
Can I use the money for anything?
Yes. There are no restrictions on how you use the $725 monthly payments.